Charles (Chuck) J. Mitchell Jr., 60, president and owner of First Capital Property Group Inc., is one of Orlando Business Journal’s 2015 Veterans of Influence who will be recognized at a Sept. 30 awards luncheon.

Here, he tells a bit about how serving in the military made him into the man he is today:

Branch of military served in: US Navy, 1977-1983

Why did you join the military? Since the age of 7 years old I wanted to be a Naval Officer. My father and uncles served in WWII. Strong desire to serve the country that I loved.

What were your first impressions of your military unit? Serving at sea is hard and sacrifices by your family are harder.

Highest rank achieved: O-3 (Lieutenant)

How military service shaped your career and the way you do business today?My military experience has given me confidence that I can accomplish more than I think I could possibly do.

Most important lesson you learned in the military? Make the best decision you can and stick with it even in difficult situations.

Best thing about being in the military? Knowing that you were making a difference and protecting the family back home. Second, friendships that last forever.

Worst thing about being in the military? Being away from home with little communication except mail delivery every week or so.

How you transitioned into a civilian career? After serving onboard ship, I served my last two years at the Recruit Training Command Orlando. It was very easy for me transitioning to civilian life after my Orlando tour of duty. Instead of being deployed 75% of the time over the last two years onboard ship, I had duty (gone 24 hours from home) every 21 days.

Biggest challenges facing veterans? Combat veterans adjusting to “normal” home life.

What your firm and/or you have done to help veterans? We have hired several veterans in the past and participated in various Veteran Events in the community.

Advice you give to veterans? The intangible skills a veteran learned while in the service are very valuable to the civilian sector.

Commendations/medals/honors received: Letter of Commendation from Commander Sixth Fleet (USS Koelsch FF-1049 – December 7, 1979 – April 26, 1980); Navy Expeditionary Medal (Persian Gulf 1980 and 1981 – Iran Hostage Crisis)

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